Burkina Faso/Defence: The fight against terrorism, the government’s outlook for 2025
In its unwavering commitment to restoring peace and stability, the Burkinabe government, aligned with President Captain Ibrahim Traoré’s vision, is ramping up efforts to reclaim territorial integrity and ensure security. Despite significant progress in the fight against terrorism, authorities acknowledge the challenges that remain.
On February 14, Brigadier General Célestin Simporé, Minister of National Defense, highlighted these efforts during the 2024 performance review of his ministry, led by Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo.
The ministry achieved an 89% success rate in meeting its 2024 objectives, with approximately 71% of the national territory now under government control.
While these results are encouraging and offer hope for a future free from terrorism, the government emphasizes the need to maintain momentum and intensify efforts.
Minister Simporé pledged to enhance the operational capabilities of the defense and security forces (FDS) and the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) through recruitment and improved equipment, aiming for even greater progress by the end of 2025.
He called on both fighting forces and civilians to remain vigilant and committed to the cause, stressing, “The war is not over. While terrorist groups have been weakened logistically and psychologically, we are not yet out of the woods. We are fully aware of this.”
The minister also highlighted the importance of the joint AES (Alliance of Sahel States) force as a critical asset in combating terrorism.
This coalition, he noted, will enable coordinated military operations across all fronts, sending a clear message to the enemy that it is time to lay down arms and join the collective effort for true independence, sovereignty, and development.
As Burkina Faso continues its fight, unity and resilience remain key to overcoming the challenges ahead.
Papa IBRAHIMA
